Tiger Woods Keeps Genesis Invitational in Southern California Amid Wildfire Recovery

Tiger Woods on Keeping the Genesis Invitational in Southern California Amid Wildfire Recovery

In a heartfelt decision that resonates deeply with the local community, Tiger Woods has announced that the Genesis Invitational tournament will remain in Southern California, despite the devastating wildfires that have swept through the region. The decision underscores the importance of community support and recovery efforts in the Los Angeles area, which has been severely affected by the fires.

Since 1999, the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, has been the proud host of the Woods-hosted event. However, the recent wildfires have ravaged 45 densely populated square miles in Los Angeles, including the Pacific Palisades community, tragically claiming the lives of at least 29 people. In light of these events, the tournament will be temporarily relocated to Torrey Pines in San Diego, scheduled for February 13-16.

Woods, speaking from his TGL match in Florida, emphasized the significance of keeping the tournament within Southern California. “Riv is just not ready,” Woods stated. “There were so many different options out on the table, and we were trying to be understanding to all the victims that these fires have caused.”

He continued, “The fact that with the city of San Diego we were able to stay within Southern California. With respect to the difficulties in L.A., I think it’s important that we were able to stay in Southern California because everyone who was born and raised out in Southern Cal can all relate to the fires. It’s a difficult situation, and we want to be very sensitive to that.”

Woods also highlighted the potential for the tournament to drive awareness and fundraising opportunities, which are crucial for the recovery efforts. “I think because we’re in Southern California, I think we’re going to be able to raise more money for all the losses that have incurred,” he said.

Considerations and Future Plans

In the process of selecting a new venue, courses in California, Phoenix, and Las Vegas were considered. Ultimately, the decision to keep the event in Southern California was made with the community’s best interests in mind. The PGA Tour has assured that the event plans to return next year to Riviera Country Club, which has not been damaged by the fires.

For Woods, this season has been a mix of challenges and new ventures. At 49, he has participated in the exhibition PNC Championship, where he partnered with his son Charlie, and played in TGL — an indoor golf league he co-founded that is in its inaugural season. Woods, a 15-time major champion, announced in mid-September that he had undergone what is believed to be his sixth back surgery. Last year, he was limited to just five PGA Tour events — missing three cuts and withdrawing from the Genesis Invitational because of illness. He finished 60th at the Masters, which was last among golfers who made the cut.

Community Impact and Support

The decision to keep the Genesis Invitational in Southern California is more than just a logistical choice; it’s a testament to the resilience and solidarity of the community. By hosting the event in San Diego, the tournament not only continues its tradition but also serves as a beacon of hope and support for those affected by the wildfires.

• Riviera Country Club has been the event’s home since 1999.
• Wildfires have claimed the lives of at least 29 people in Los Angeles.
• The tournament will be held at Torrey Pines in San Diego from February 13-16.
• Woods has undergone what is believed to be his sixth back surgery.
• He participated in the PNC Championship with his son Charlie.

As the community rallies together, the Genesis Invitational stands as a symbol of hope and recovery, reminding us all of the power of sports to unite and uplift in times of adversity.